1. Why play online?
Playing backgammon online has considerable advantages over playing on a physical board:
- Opponents available around the clock: thousands of players online at any hour from all over the world
- Automatic analysis: the best platforms analyse every move and point out your mistakes
- All levels: from beginners to world-class experts, you will always find an opponent at your level
- Free of charge: most platforms are completely free
- No equipment needed: play from any device
If you are a beginner, start by playing against the computer (easy level) to get a firm grasp of the rules and the rhythm of the game. Then move on to human opponents to make real progress — the AI does not have the same psychological habits as a person.
2. Backgammon Galaxy ⭐ Our favourite
Backgammon Galaxy (backgammongalaxy.com) is currently regarded as the best free platform for serious play. It uses analysis from the Extreme Gammon (XG) engine, the benchmark analysis software used by world champions.
| Criterion | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Interface quality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Modern, smooth, very pleasant |
| Number of players | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | A solid community, several thousand active players |
| Move analysis | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Built-in XG analysis after every game |
| Free to use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Free, with premium options |
| Variants available | ⭐⭐⭐ | Standard backgammon plus a few variants |
Backgammon Galaxy's strengths
- An accurate Elo rating system
- Regular tournaments, including for beginners
- An excellent touch interface on mobile
- In-game chat and an active community
- Detailed analysis with suggested alternative moves
3. FIBS — First Internet Backgammon Server
FIBS (First Internet Backgammon Server) is the grand old ancestor of online backgammon platforms — it has been running since 1992. Its interface is spartan, but its community is one of the most expert in the world. FIBS regulars are often very serious players.
- Pros: completely free, a community of experts, a legendary history
- Cons: dated interface, takes a while to get used to
- Ideal for: experienced players looking to take on strong opponents
4. Other platforms: what to check?
Other, more modest platforms also offer real-time games, a rating system and tournaments. Before signing up, check that they are still active: several older sites have closed. The right criteria:
- A clean interface that is easy to pick up
- A good European community
- Real-time and correspondence (asynchronous) matches
- Mobile app available
5. VIP Backgammon
VIP Backgammon is particularly strong on mobile (iOS and Android). The interface is beautifully polished, with attractive animations and a good user experience. Ideal for quick games on your smartphone.
- An excellent mobile app
- A range of game modes (classic, speed, tournaments)
- A large international community
- Option to play offline against the AI
6. GNU Backgammon (against the computer)
GNU Backgammon (gnubg.org) is free, open-source software that plays at expert level. It is widely used for training because it analyses every move and explains the best alternatives.
GNU Backgammon is excellent for working on a specific position at your own pace. Play against it in “analysis” mode to see straight away whether your move was optimal, acceptable or a serious blunder.
Difficulty levels
GNU Backgammon offers several levels, from complete beginner to near-unbeatable expert. At “expert” level it plays better than 99% of humans — so do not be discouraged!
7. Recommended mobile apps
| App | Platform | Free? | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIP Backgammon | iOS / Android | Yes | Premium interface, worldwide community |
| Backgammon Gold | iOS / Android | Yes (with in-app purchases) | Strong AI, offline solo play |
| Lord of the Board | iOS / Android | Yes | Social, chat, avatars |
| Backgammon NJ | iOS | Paid | Excellent AI, no ads |
| XG Mobile | iOS / Android | Paid | Pro-level analysis, used in tournaments |
8. Tips for improving online
Analyse your games
The most valuable feature of serious platforms is post-game analysis. After every defeat (and every win), review your mistakes. The best platforms classify errors as major blunders, moderate errors and minor inaccuracies.
Play matches to a set number of points
Avoid single games (money play) when you are starting out. Play 5- or 7-point matches — this forces you to learn how to use the cube and manage the score.
Choose opponents of the right standard
Do not play against just anyone. Look for opponents close to your own level (±200 Elo points). Overly large gaps teach you very little.
Join a community
The French Backgammon Federation (FFBG) organises online tournaments. In Switzerland too, clubs organise tournaments.
Fancy a real board for playing offline?
Nothing beats the pleasure of playing on a beautiful wooden board. See our guide to choosing the best equipment.
Choose your backgammon set →